The emotional, mental, psychological and physical damages of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault can be daunting. Intimate partner violence not only impacts the relationship but the relationships with your children and extended family as well. Although this can change the very fabric of our being and leave us confused, sometimes we find the courage to use these challenges to fuel our purpose. My guest this week did just that!
Roweena Davis is a 20 year retired Army Veteran. She served as a victim advocate during her time in the Army Reserve and as a civilian, she is a senior HR Specialist for an Army Reserve Command. She is a part of Alpha Gamma Xi Military Sorority where she served as the program director for SWANS (Supporting Women and Nurturing Survivors) a resource that supports survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
In July of 2020, she decided enough was enough with the “quiet” issues in the military with domestic violence and sexual assault; so she founded WE BELIEVE YOU SOS (Supporting our Survivors) to provide resources and awareness to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Since its inception, her and her team were able to host a virtual 5K for military survivors of sexual assault that raised more than $10,000 for “Protect our Defenders”. They have also had the opportunity to serve as hosts of their first annual Healing Conference for Women as well as a panel discussion on helping men overcome trauma. She has been featured with several other organizations on Clubhouse to be able to continue to raise awareness to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault amongst military members, veterans, and military spouses. She also served as a guest panelist with PAVE (Promoting Awareness/Victim Empowerment) on their BIPOC episode of how sexual assault and domestic violence affects Black Indigenous People of Color.
She is also a published author and assisted in giving her story of survival in Sisters in Arms: The Black Diamond Experience: Our Rise to Significance. In her chapter entitled “Good Enough,” she discusses her struggles of not feeling good enough which eventually led to many of her destructive relationships. She talks about her abusive marriage (both physically and mentally) and how she was able to finally leave everything behind and start new.
Roweena frequently shares her story and trauma as she knows that not only will it helps other survivors in her shoes, but it has helped her with her healing journey.
Grab a copy of her book on Amazon and support the We Believe you SOS organization.
Consider sharing your story with us.
Email: podcast@thecarybrand.com. We LOVE to hear from YOU!
The views and content shared on this podcast are personal and do not reflect the views of any branch of military service or any public or government agency unless otherwise noted.
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Until Next Time, Be Kind to your body, soul & mind! ~ Cary
